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The 7th Annual AscendNAAMBA Conference & Career Exposition to Take Place at New York Hilton Midtown, September 9-10, 2016
Arturo Nunez, Head of Marketing, Latin America at Apple to be Featured as the Mentoring Breakfast Keynote Speaker

NEW YORK, September 6, 2016 – AscendNAAMBA (National Association of Asian MBAs), Ascend's national non-profit organization for MBA/graduate students and professionals, is hosting its 7th Annual AscendNAAMBA Conference & Career Exposition at New York Hilton Midtown, September 9-10, 2016.

The Annual AscendNAAMBA Conference is the premier event for Pan-Asian MBAs, students and professionals featuring a Career Exposition with companies seeking to hire emerging Pan-Asian talent, professional skills development sessions, powerful networking and unique opportunities to connect with mentors and sponsors. For AscendNAAMBA partners, this signature conference offers a platform to acquire top Pan-Asian talent, leadership training for their employees, and opportunity to brand their organization as a strong advocate of Diversity and Inclusion. This year’s conference features many inspirational leaders, including Arturo Nunez, Head of Marketing, Latin America, Apple; Celeste Warren, Vice President, Human Resources and Chief Diversity Officer, Merck; and Chris Park, Senior Vice President, Growth, Strategy & International, Major League Baseball (MLB), who is also the honoree of the 2016 AscendNAAMBA Trailblazer Award.

2016 AscendNAAMBA Conference highlights include the Career Exposition, Mentoring Breakfast, Annual Women’s Leadership Summit Presented by the Women’s Leadership Council (WLC) and the Benefit & Awards Dinner featuring student scholarships presented by PNC and The Home Depot and the Employer of Choice for High-Achieving Pan-Asian Millennials Award presented to select AscendNAAMBA partners in partnership with the National Society of High Schools Scholars (NSHSS). In addition, the organization will host these invite only events: Corporate Executive Initiative (CEI) Leadership Summit and Multicultural Forum.

Jeff Chin, the Ascend National President, said: “Ascend is a lifecycle organization and developing MBAs, students and professionals is a key part of our mission. The AscendNAAMBA Conference is all about the Pan-Asian students and emerging talent who are our future. Join us in the city that never sleeps and be part of the excitement!”

2016 Ascend National Convention, the Largest Pan-Asian Business Event of the Year, Celebrated at Disneyland

Cross industry leaders join Ascend at the Most Magical Place on Earth

NEW YORK, NY – August 4, 2016 – Ascend, the largest non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America celebrated its 2016 National Convention at Disneyland, July 30 to August 1st. The Convention theme this year was “Dare to Dream, Be Extraordinary, Ascend!” – a theme that challenged attendees to dream bigger to reach new professional heights. The Ascend Convention is the largest gathering of Pan-Asian business professionals in North America with 50+ corporate sponsors.

Ascend was thrilled to feature sessions with leaders and expert speakers from a variety of industries from entertainment to technology, engineering, media, accounting, financial services and many more. Ascend is a lifecycle organization and the convention featured programs for different career levels including Pinnacle, the Pan-Asian Corporate Board Initiative, Corporate Executive Initiative, Executive Insight Series, and sessions for millennials and students. Highlights included keynote speaker S. Singh Mecker from KPMG who gave an inspiring speech about the pace of innovation and the need for change, Deloitte’s keynote speaker Jim Moffatt, CEO, Global Consulting, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited and Deputy CEO, Deloitte LLP (Deloitte U.S.), who spoke about the interconnected and interdependent global marketplace and the trends in the race for talent.

This year, the convention also featured a session exploring Pan-Asian representation in Hollywood with actors Justin Chon, Jessika Van and producer Andrea Chung, a session discussing Pan-Asians in public office and politics with Michelle K. Lee, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Fiona Ma, Chairwoman of California State Board of Equalization and Amanda K. Packel from the Stanford Rock Center for Corporate Governance and Stanford Directors’ College. The convention programming culminated with the hugely popular Ascend Talks featuring Chris Simmons from PwC (ret.), Michael Fung from Wal-Mart US (ret.) and Jenny Ming from Charlotte Russe who spoke about daring to dream, being authentic and the power of personal branding. In addition, as part of the national convention, the General Motors Foundation presented the Ascend Foundation with a $25,000 grant to help support education programs and professional leadership initiatives offered by the organization.

Jeff Chin, the Ascend National President, said: “We are happy to report that Pan-Asians are well positioned for future growth – both increasing our influence and making our voice heard. This year's convention is a testament with 3,000+ registered participants. Let’s continue to move the needle and take this momentum into next year at the 2017 Ascend National Convention in Houston!”

Ascend was honored to have Asa Kalama, Executive Creative Director, Walt Disney Imagineering, as the Awards and Benefit Dinner keynote speaker. Ascend continued the tradition of recognizing business leaders who have made significant contributions to the Pan-Asian community. At this year’s convention, Ascend recognized Jenny Ming, President & Chief Executive Officer, Charlotte Russe with Deloitte’s Ascend Leadership Award, Dr. Mahendra Lohani, Senior Vice President of Programs, Heifer International with the Ascend Humanitarian Award, AT&T with the Ascend Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion Award and Cisco Connected Asian Affinity Network (CAAN) with the Ascend Affinity/ERG Leadership Award.

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Ascend (@AscendLeader) is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America. Established in 2005, Ascend’s reach includes 60,000+ senior executives, professionals, and MBA/undergraduate students involved in its 50+ chapters in the United States and Canada. As a career lifecycle organization, it offers robust leadership and professional development programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent by supporting its members in reaching their career potential and by supporting its corporate partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive workforce to achieve business growth. Visit http://www.ascendleadership.org for more information.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Sofia Poyhonen

+1 (212) 248-4888

sofia.poyhonen@ascendleadership.org

The 2016 Ascend National Convention to Take Place at the Disneyland Hotel, Anaheim, CA on July 30th to August 1st, 2016

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – July 26, 2016 – Ascend, the largest non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America is holding its 2016 National Convention at the Disneyland Hotel, Anaheim on July 30th to August 1st. The Ascend Convention will be the largest gathering of Pan-Asian business leaders, professionals and students in North America with an expected 3,000 registered participants.

The convention theme this year is “Dare to Dream, Be Extraordinary, Ascend!” which speaks to the importance of dreaming big, becoming the best one can be, and reaching new heights. All industries are going through transformative change, and the attendees will hear actionable insights and latest trends from expert speakers, engage in these conversations and be at the forefront of change and innovation in their own organizations. Our three-day convention includes innovative, engaging programming, professional enhancement opportunities to develop the leadership skills of our attendees, combined with powerful networking and mentoring tailored for all attendees – from university students to professionals to senior executives and corporate board members. The career fair offers a fantastic opportunity for students and professionals to meet with various companies, learn about their career offerings, as well as network with industry leaders and key decision makers.

Jeff Chin, the Ascend National President, said: “Pan-Asians and Ascend are well positioned for future growth in North America and internationally with our vision to enhance the presence and influence of current and future Pan-Asian business leaders and serve as a collective voice for Pan-Asian business communities. I am so excited that Ascend is back at the most magical place on earth, Disneyland! Come join us and bring your family to the Disneyland Hotel and experience the premier Ascend event of the year. ”

Ascend (@AscendLeader) is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America. Established in 2005, Ascend’s reach includes 60,000+ senior executives, professionals, and MBA/undergraduate students involved in its 50+ chapters in the United States and Canada. As a career lifecycle organization, it offers robust leadership and professional development programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent by supporting its members in reaching their career potential and by supporting its corporate partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive workforce to achieve business growth. Visit http://www.ascendleadership.org for more information.

SAN FRANCISCO – April 22, 2016 – In a milestone year for the Northern California Chapter of Ascend marking its 10th anniversary, it is taking a fresh approach in launching their 2016 - 2017 program year. The NorCal Chapter plans to recognize business and civic leaders for their achievements in promoting diversity at The Ascend Awards Gala held at the Four Seasons in San Francisco, CA on Thursday, May 19, 2016 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Ascend NorCal is proud to announce the Pan-Asian Leadership Award marquee honorees who will be celebrated at the Awards Gala:

·CEO Leadership Award

Loretta Doon

Chief Executive Officer, CalCPA

·C-Suite Leadership Award

Thuan Pham

Chief Technology Officer, Uber Technology, Inc.

·Diversity & Inclusion Leadership Award

Erby Foster, Jr.

Director of Diversity & Inclusion, The Clorox Company

·Public Sector Leadership Award

Fiona Ma

Chairwoman, California State Board of Equalization, District 2

The Chapter also welcomes a noteworthy guest of honor, Richard Lui, MSNBC news anchor, NBC News who was the first Asian American male to anchor a daily, national cable news show in the U.S. Lui will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the evening and will moderate a panel discussion with the marquee honorees to share their ideas and perspectives on “Fostering diversity today for a better tomorrow.” Scholarship recipients from Ascend student chapters from UC Berkeley, UC Davis and San Francisco State will also be recognized.

“We are looking forward to this very special night. We will honor these esteemed individuals for their outstanding work ethic in evolving diversity and inclusion initiatives. Their highly visible career achievements and altruistic spirit inspire our Pan-Asian Ascend community,” remarked Ajay Anand, President of Ascend Northern California Chapter.

The black-tie optional event is expected to draw public dignitaries and officials and senior representatives from top global firms in the San Francisco Bay Area including Ascend NorCal President’s Circle sponsors EY, Chevron and The Clorox Company. The organizations represented in the President’s Circle demonstrate the highest level of commitment and sponsorship support for Ascend and will be celebrated at an exclusive President’s Wine Reception. The elegant event will include a three-course dinner, live multicultural entertainment and dancing at the conclusion of the night.

This Awards Gala will be a pinnacle celebration for the Chapter during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. For more information and to register for this event, please visit: http://bit.ly/21so8Z8. Seats are limited for this exclusive event. Registration ends May 17, 2016.

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About Ascend and Ascend Foundation

Ascend (@AscendLeader) is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America. Established in 2005, Ascend’s network includes 60,000+ senior executives, professionals, and MBA/undergraduate students involved in its 40+ chapters. As a career lifecycle organization, it offers robust leadership and professional development programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent by supporting its members in reaching their career potentials and by supporting its corporate partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive workforce to achieve business growth. Visit www.ascendleadership.org for more information.

Ascend Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to educate, advocate, and enable Pan-Asian business leaders to reach their full potential. Through its research and thought leadership activities, the Foundation’s goal is to help Pan-Asian leaders make greater impacts in business.

For Immediate Release

Contact: Sofia Poyhonen

+1 (212) 248-4888

sofia.poyhonen@ascendleadership.org

Ascend NorCal Chapter Celebrates Tenth Year Anniversary and

Hosts Pan-Asian Leadership Awards Gala

SAN FRANCISCO – April 8, 2016 – The Northern California Chapter of Ascend is proud to announce their Tenth Anniversary Celebration. Coinciding with this celebration, they will be hosting an Awards Gala at the Four Seasons in San Francisco, CA the evening of Thursday, May 19, 2016 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

Ascend NorCal’s Awards Gala will honor business and public leaders and recognize their achievements in diversity leadership and service. Several senior executives from San Francisco Bay Area based global firms, as well as public dignitaries and officials, will attend the gala. It will feature a President’s wine Reception, celebrity emcee and live entertainment. A highly anticipated segment of the gala includes a thought provoking discussion on “Fostering diversity today for a better tomorrow” with select awardees. Ascend Bay Area Student Chapter scholarship recipients will also be honored.

“We have experienced tremendous growth in our first decade as a chapter and I am very proud of our program’s accomplishments in developing and promoting diverse talent. This year’s Awards Gala marks a major milestone in our journey and we are excited to have this forum to celebrate those in our professional communities who continue to inspire us and support our chapter’s goals,” comments Ajay Anand, President of Ascend Northern California Chapter.

“All of the individuals being recognized and awarded are considered trailblazers in their field and are especially inspirational to the Pan-Asian community and beyond,” remarked Judy Kopa, Co-Chair for the Gala and Board Member of Ascend NorCal Chapter. “They are being recognized for the impact of their work in the San Francisco Bay Area, our NorCal communities and of course, the broader world at large,” said Binita Pradhan, Co-Chair for the Gala and Board Member of Ascend NorCal Chapter.

Ascend (@AscendLeader) is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America. Established in 2005, Ascend’s network includes 60,000+ senior executives, professionals, and MBA/undergraduate students involved in its 40+ chapters. As a career lifecycle organization, it offers robust leadership and professional development programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent by supporting its members in reaching their career potentials and by supporting its corporate partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive workforce to achieve business growth. Visit www.ascendleadership.org for more information.

Ascend Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to educate, advocate, and enable Pan-Asian business leaders to reach their full potential. Through its research and thought leadership activities, the Foundation’s goal is to help Pan-Asian leaders make greater impacts in business.

Study: Female Executives at the Center of Change and Innovation

in Corporate America

Groundbreaking research examines the influence of women’s leadership

in today’s global economy

NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 25, 2016 – Female executives are creating corporate cultures of change and innovation, according to a newly published research study conducted by The Everest Project. Eve of Change: Women Redefining Corporate America examines the influence of women’s leadership in today’s global economy and provides insight into how the intersection of gender, race, ethnicity, culture, and sexual orientation impacts women in the workplace. The full report is available online at www.everestproject.org.

The study’s findings are the result of over two years of confidential interviews with 132 of some of the most senior-level female executives in the United States. Participants –who identified as Black, Hispanic, LGBTQ, Pan Asian or White— represented over eighty Fortune 500 corporations from a range of different industries and regions. An additional 260 executive level interviews with the interview subject’s manager and her direct report were conducted for a more comprehensive perspective. In total, The Everest Project’s findings are based on 392 interviews.

Key Research Findings

Below are the five key findings presented in Eve of Change: Women Redefining Corporate America:

1.Women are leading change and transformation in their organizations

Over half of the change initiatives catalogued in the Everest interviews represented strategic or structural change that women led, with significant organizational impact, from contributing billions of dollars to bottom lines, building new businesses, or rebuilding failing ones, to inspiring social movements beyond their corporate doors. They lead from the known to the unknown, transforming the hearts and minds of their people in the process and creating cultures more open to innovation.

2.Women embrace smart risk

Contrary to popular belief, women take risk – often, significant risk on behalf of their organizations. Being unafraid to fail, throwing assumptions out the window, trying new things and voicing a contrarian opinion: these are just a few ways that interview subjects take risks, which they see as a critically important aspect of leading change.

3.Humility is the new power tool

Humility, often considered a weakness, is the new power tool in leadership. In this era of flat organizations and a flat world where everyone is called upon to collaborate and work effectively across silos, humility is a critically important skill. When used strategically, humility fosters a vibrant environment where it’s “safe to make change and to break some things” – fertile ground for innovation.

4.Collaboration is not consensus

In the new reality of hyper connected environments, collaboration is king. If consensus involves equal voice and an emphasis on collective decision making, collaboration is a different animal. Leaders are always at the helm, responsible for taking action that is best for their business.

5.Difference is more

Being different means having more to contribute and collaboration is the currency for navigating a flat world. Women who have figured out how to use their gender, race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and cultural background, as part of their leadership toolkit, bring far more to the table for their corporations and teams.

Conclusion: Women today are designing a new corporate culture for a time of rapid change. They possess a leadership vision, approaches, and skill – that have not been previously identified and have too often gone unrecognized, underappreciated, and misrepresented in mainstream research. Women use that portfolio of skills and qualities as part of an integrated process for fostering innovation. For women leading this charge, innovation is not a self-contained endeavor. It’s a process that evolves and emerges, fashioned from a culture that interview subjects have imagined and have made real.

“The findings are stunning and speak to the transformative impact women executives are making at their organizations,” stated Lily Tang, President and Co-Founder of The Everest Project. “Contrary to the constant messages about what women have to do to succeed, women are consistently succeeding in leading change; from the massive to the incremental.”

“Our study offers companies a blueprint on how to create a corporate environment that not only empowers women, but also their business,” said Pamela Carlton, Co-Founder and Lead Researcher of The Everest Project. “We hope our findings will help rewrite the script for business success and illuminate how women are shaping corporate cultures and unleashing creativity for sustainable innovation.”

Research partners for the study included leading affinity-based professional organizations Ascend, The Executive Leadership Council (ELC), Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) and Out Leadership. These groups provided thought leadership and helped identify senior level female executives for the study.

“In today’s global economy, having more women in senior leadership positions with unique expertise and diverse perspectives is critical to remain competitive and enhance business performance,” stated Ronald C. Parker, President and CEO of The Executive Leadership Council. He added that “These findings underscore the value of diversity as more than just good corporate social responsibility – it’s a business imperative.”

Time Warner and Walmart are the lead underwriters of The Everest Project. Other organizations providing corporate sponsorship for the study include Bank of America, American Express, Amgen, 3M, Ernst & Young, Comcast, Comerica, Viacom, Godiva and the Colgate-Palmolive Company.

“Women are leading our businesses at Time Warner in record numbers but more importantly, they have been instrumental in driving our growth and sparking innovation," said Lisa Garcia Quiroz, President, Time Warner Foundation and SVP and Chief Diversity Officer, ‎Time Warner Inc. “This report masterfully highlights and explores the many contributions of women and how women are critical to the future of our businesses.”

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About The Everest Project

The Everest Project is the first theoretical and practical research initiative to take a multicultural and gender specific perspective in examining the role of women executives in corporate America. The findings presented in Everest’s first published research study, Eve of Change: Women Redefining Corporate America, breaks new ground for women and for businesses that understand that managing the status quo is not enough. Leading change is the new normal.

Record Attendance at the 8th Annual Ascend National Convention in New York, the Largest Pan-Asian Business Event of the Year

(PRWEB) September 23, 2015 -- NEW YORK, September 23, 2015 - Ascend, the largest non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America celebrated its 10th Anniversary at its Annual National Convention in New York City, August 29th to 31st. This year's Convention was Ascend’s largest yet with 3,000+ registered participants.

The Convention theme this year was “What success looks like – Agile, Innovative, Bold” – a theme that was extensively explored during the convention. Ascend was thrilled to present the inaugural installment of The “Ascend Talk” Series where inspirational senior business executives – Irene Chang Britt, Board Director, Dunkin’ Brands Group; Michael Chen, General Partner & CEO, Chen & Associates and Former President & CEO, GE Capital Media; and Chris Simmons, CEO, Moments LLC and Retired Managing Partner and U.S. Board Member, PwC – shared personal perspectives on the key themes of the convention and explored what it means to be Agile, Innovative, and Bold. The session received rave reviews.

Another session that received praise was “Pan-Asians In The Business World: How Perceptions Impact Our Realities” lead by Anna Mok, Partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP and Executive Vice President, Ascend and moderated by Richard Lui, Journalist and News Anchor, MSNBC and NBC News. Panelists examined how perceptions of Pan-Asians and gender viewed through subjective cultural lens may create barriers to advancements in business as these perceptions impact performance evaluations, perceptions of leadership potential, and advancement opportunities. The session also looked at a breakthrough 2015 Ascend Foundation study, “Hidden in Plain Sight: Asian American Leaders in Silicon Valley,” that analyzed the previously confidential U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) data released by five major Silicon Valley companies and found that while Asian men and women are well represented in the non-managerial professional workforce, they are severely under-represented at the executive levels. The study found that although there are nearly as many Asian professionals as white professionals in these companies, white men and women are ~154% more likely to be an executive compared to their Asian counterparts. The “Asian effect” is 3.7x greater than the “gender effect” as a glass ceiling factor.

A key focus of Ascend is to build and expand the network of Pan-Asian senior executives and corporate board directors and this year's convention featured a session focused on this community called “CEI (Corporate Executive Initiative) & Pinnacle (Corporate Board Initiative) session: Agile, Innovative, Bold: Diverse Leadership in Corporate Board Rooms & Executive Ranks”. The session discussed how diversity at the top of corporations helps companies perform better and provide better returns for shareholders with experienced board members and corporate executives sharing their personal experiences and journeys. Ascend’s Pan-Asian Corporate Board Initiative, Pinnacle, was launched to increase the pipeline and placement of qualified Pan-Asian corporate board candidates and educate Pan-Asians to become successful members of corporate boards and executive management. Pinnacle’s network reaches almost 90 Pan-Asian board members and is growing.

This year, Ascend was excited to have two authors and inspirational speakers in attendance: Joe Jordan, Author of “Living a Life of Significance” and Dennis N. T. Perkins, Author of "Leading at The Edge" and CEO of The Syncretics Group. Both speeches were extremely well received and attendees left inspired. In addition, Ascend was pleased to have Betty Liu, Anchor/Editor-at-Large, Bloomberg Market Day, moderate a C-Suite fireside chat in which leaders from global organizations gave tips on how agility can enhance business results in today’s fast-paced workplace. Furthermore, Amna Nawaz, Managing Editor, NBC News Asian America and Kevin Negandhi, SportsCenter Anchor, ESPN appeared as Masters of Ceremonies at Ascend’s 10th Anniversary Benefit and Awards Dinner.

Jeff Chin, the Ascend National President, said: “We are proud to announce that this year's convention was our largest yet with 3,000+ registered participants. From beginning to end, I was impressed with the overall energy and excitement! A big thank you goes to our partners, speakers, members, and supporters! I hope we can continue this momentum into next year at the Disneyland Hotel July 30- August 1, 2016!”

Ascend (@AscendLeader) is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America. Established in 2005, Ascend’s network includes 60,000+ senior executives, professionals, and MBA/undergraduate students involved in its 50+ chapters in the United States and Canada. As a career lifecycle organization, it offers robust leadership and professional development programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent by supporting its members in reaching their career potential and by supporting its corporate partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive workforce to achieve

The 8th Annual Ascend National Convention, the Largest Pan-Asian Business Event of the Year, to Take Place in New York on August 29th to 31st, 2015

Deloitte Chairman of the Board Mike Fucci to appear as a keynote speaker at the Ascend Benefit & Awards Dinner as Ascend celebrates its 10th Anniversary

NEW YORK, NY (PRWEB) AUGUST 26, 2015

Ascend, the largest non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America is celebrating its 10th Anniversary at its 8th Annual National Convention in New York City, August 29th to 31st. The Ascend Convention will be the largest gathering of Pan-Asian business leaders in North America with an expected 2,000+ registered participants.

This year, Ascend will also have two authors and inspirational speakers in attendance: Joe Jordan, Author of “Living a Life of Significance” and Dennis N. T. Perkins, Author of "Leading at The Edge"and CEO of The Syncretics Group. In addition, Ascend is pleased to have Betty Liu, Anchor/Editor-at-Large, Bloomberg Market Day and Richard Lui, Journalist and News Anchor, MSNBC and NBC News, appear as moderators. As a career lifecycle membership organization, Ascend's three-day Convention programming includes networking and professional enhancement opportunities for all Ascend members – from university students to professionals to senior executives and corporate board members. The Career Fair offers a fantastic opportunity for students to meet with various companies, learn about their career offerings, as well as network with industry leaders and key decision-makers.

Jeff Chin, the Ascend National President, said, “I am so excited that Ascend is 10 years old! It is only fitting that our National Convention is held where it all began, in New York City. Come join us at the New York Hilton Midtown in August and experience the premier Pan-Asian business event of the year and take part in all the birthday celebrations!”

Ascend (@AscendLeader) is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America. Established in 2005, Ascend’s network includes 60,000+ senior executives, professionals, and MBA/undergraduate students involved in its 50+ chapters in the United States and Canada. As a career lifecycle organization, it offers robust leadership and professional development programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent by supporting its members in reaching their career potential and by supporting its corporate partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive workforce to achieve business growth. Visit http://www.ascendleadership.org for more information.

SAN FRANCISCO — June 4, 2015 — Ascend Pan-Asian Leaders NorCal Chapter announces the appointment of three new board members. The staff and current board of the NorCal Chapter of Ascend are happy to welcome new board members Faye Karnavy Sahai, Cindy Lau and Shawn Mattar.

“We are excited about these new additions to our current impressive Board of Directors. We know they will help us grow and further the mission and vision of Ascend Pan-Asian Leaders.” Ajay Anand, President of Ascend Pan-Asian Leaders Northern California Chapter, said.

Ascend Pan-Asian Leaders works hard to extend its reach and include engaging new community leaders to promote and support leadership activities and career enhancement for Pan-Asian students, professionals and executives in the US and Canada.Faye Karnavy Sahai will work with Ascend Leadership on our Corporate Executive Initiative (CEI) Program. She currently also serves on the Board of Directors for Ayogo Health Inc. and the Berger Research Institute and was a former Vice President of Innovation and Advanced Technology for Kaiser Permanente. Faye brings to this position more than 20 years of experience in leading innovation, catalyst for change and strategic initiatives at companies such as Blue Shield, Deloitte, Charles Schwab, AIG, Disney, HP, Kaiser Permanente and Toyota.

Cindy Lau will join the Ascend NorCal Board as the Vice President of Marketing & Membership. Cindy is presently Senior Director of Client Service at Resources Global Professionals (RGP). Cindy brings with her more than 20 years of experience in global consulting, professional services, internal audit and IT. Her career has spanned across such leading firms as Oracle, Deloitte, DHL and RGP. She also volunteers with a number of non-profits in San Francisco as a tutor and career mentor and has served frequently as a panelist, coach and speaker for professional development workshops and conferences.

Shawn Mattarwill join the Ascend NorCal Board as Treasurer and Board Member. Shawn is presently a Principal of Deloitte with over 16 years of consulting experience. Serving as the lead Advisory Principal on brand name technology clients, Shawn is known for bringing innovative solutions, building world class teams and helping clients through a range of complex issues requiring cross-functional experience in process transformation, data analytics and IT governance. He also volunteers with a non-profit that provides early care and education services for children.

The three new members join an eight-member board that oversees Ascend Pan-Asian Leaders NorCal Chapter’s finances and strategic planning.

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Glass Ceiling for Asian Americans Is 3.7x Times Harder to Crack

Ascend Foundation publishes new research on Silicon Valley leadership diversity;

Offers Executive Parity Index tool to measure the effect of race and gender

NEW YORK CITY — May 6, 2015 — It’s tough enough for women to crack the glass ceiling in business, but for Asian American men and women, the challenge is even greater. Released at the start of Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, a new study from the Ascend® Foundation (www.ascendleadership.org) examines a problem that has been hidden in plain sight for decades and, for the first time, quantifies the impact of race and gender in a data-driven investigation of Silicon Valley’s Asian glass ceiling.

The new report, Hidden in Plain Sight: Asian American Leaders in Silicon Valley (http://goo.gl/HeTLzs), analyzes the leadership pipeline using 2013 employment data filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) by five major Silicon Valley-based companies — Google, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, LinkedIn, and Yahoo. Concurrently, Ascend, the largest non-profit Pan-Asian organization for business professionals in North America, has rolled out a new Executive Parity Index™ (EPI™) calculator tool on its website (www.ascendleadership.org/?page=EPI) that can be used by any company to help measure its leadership diversity.

Using a novel EPI approach to compare representation of South and East Asians in the leadership pipeline, the Ascend report uncovers surprising new insights about the role of race and gender in Silicon Valley:

·Although both race and gender are factors that contribute to a glass ceiling,the impact of race is 3.7 times more significant than the impact of gender as a negative factor for the Asian workforce within the companies examined.

·While white men are 42% more likely than white women to be an executive in these companies, they are 149% percent more likely than Asian men to be an executive, and 260% more likely than Asian women to be an executive.

·For Asian women in these companies, this translates into a “double whammy” race-plus-gender problem: Only 1 of every 285 Asian women is an executive, less than half the ratio for the entire workforce of 1 executive per 118 professionals.

“Most surprising is that the EEOC data has been widely reported, but no one bothered to look at its real implications,” said Buck Gee, a former vice president and general manager at Cisco and one of the study co-authors. “With the EPI analysis approach, we now have a simple and meaningful way to measure and compare executive pipelines by gender and race.”

A Wake-Up Call for Employers and Employees

“The common assumption is that Asians are successful since so many of them already work in Silicon Valley companies,” said Janet Wong, a former partner at KPMG and study co-author. "However, our deeper EPI analysis reveals that while Asians are well-represented —even overrepresented— at the staff and professional levels, they are underrepresented in the management pipeline and barely seen at the executive levels."

This gap is a huge wake-up call for both employers and employees. “We believe this huge disparity is attributable to the clash between elements of traditional Asian culture and American corporate culture, specifically gaps in awareness, expectations, role models, and behavior,” added Wong.

Denise Peck, a former vice president of marketing at Cisco and the third study author, stated, “While these gaps bring an important issue to the foreground, the good news is this is an addressable problem. The fastest and most effective way to build an Asian leadership pipeline is to attack the problem from both ends. Companies can conduct an affirmative search to identify high potential Asian managers and leverage culture-specific leadership programs, and Asian professionals must develop and demonstrate soft leadership skills. While many companies already realize that they have an Asian leadership gap, they can get a deeper understanding of their gender and racial gaps with an EPI analysis.”

Ascend Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to educate, advocate, and enable Pan-Asian business leaders to reach their full potential. Through its research and thought leadership activities, the Foundation’s goal is to help Pan-Asian leaders make greater impacts in business.

Ascend (@AscendLeader) is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian membership organization for business professionals in North America. Established in 2005, Ascend’s network includes 60,000+ senior executives, professionals, and MBA/undergraduate students involved in its 40+ chapters. As a career lifecycle organization, it offers robust leadership and professional development programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent by supporting its members in reaching their career potentials and by supporting its corporate partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive workforce to achieve business growth. Visit www.ascendleadership.org for more information.

The 7th Annual Ascend National Convention, the Largest Pan-Asian Business Event of the Year, to Take Place in Washington D.C. on August 23rd to 25th, 2014

NEW YORK, August 7 2014 - Ascend, the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian organization for business professionals in North America is holding its 7th Annual National Convention in Washington D.C. on August 23rd to 25th. The Ascend National Convention is the largest gathering of Pan-Asian business leaders and professionals in North America with over 2,000 attendees.

Top industry leaders, senior executives and professionals, along with MBAs and undergraduate students representing over 250 corporations and universities participate in three days of leadership and professional development and networking. At this year’s convention, we will recognize Norman Y. Mineta, Retired United States Secretary of Transportation and Founder of the Mineta Transportation Institute with the Ascend Lifetime Achievement Award. The announcement was made today by Jeff Chin, the Ascend National President. The award recognizes an individual who has made extraordinary and integral contributions to the Pan-Asian community throughout their career.

This year’s convention theme “Building Connections, Building Leaders, Building Growth” speaks to the lifelong objectives, commitment and principles that Ascend is founded on. This year, we are honored to have many great leaders speak at Ascend’s Convention, such as SEC Commissioner Michael S. Piwowar and John Veihmeyer, Global Chairman of KPMG International and Chairman and CEO of KPMG in the U.S.

Jeff Chin said: “We are so excited to be bringing the Ascend National Convention to our Nation’s Capital. Come join us at the Washington Hilton in August and experience the premier Pan-Asian business event of the year!”

Founded in 2005, Ascend is today the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian organization for business professionals in North America and reaches over 60,000 people with 30 student chapters and 17 professional chapters located in both the United States and Canada. Ascend offers robust professional development and career enhancement programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian talent.

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Ascend is the premier professional organization dedicated to enabling its members, corporate partners and the professional Pan-Asian community to leverage the leadership and global business potential of Pan-Asian professionals worldwide. To learn more, please visit: www.ascendleadership.org.

February 18, 2014
​

WES HOM TO TAKE A LEAVE OF ABSENCE FROM ASCEND

Due to personal health concerns, Wes Hom, Managing Director and National Board Member, is taking an extended leave of absence from Ascend.

Wes said, "While I believe in Ascend’s mission to the community, it is with regret that I have made the decision to take extended time off. I wish continued success to the Ascend organization, and most of all, to the national team who have done so much to help Ascend succeed and grow.”

Jeff Chin, National President, said, "Wes’ leadership will be sorely missed! We thank Wes for his numerous innovative contributions to Ascend, while leading our organization and its high-end programs. We wish Wes all the best and look forward to his future involvement with Ascend.”

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December 5, 2013

ASCEND BOARD MEMBER SRIDHAR RAMAMOORTI APPOINTED AS PCAOB STANDING ADVISORY GROUP MEMBER

Ascend is proud to announce that we have nominated a valued
member of our Board of Directors, Sridhar Ramamoorti, to The Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board’s Standing Advisory Group (SAG) and he has been confirmed to serve a three-year term
beginning in January 2014.
The
SAG advises the PCAOB on the development of auditing and related professional
practice standards. The advisory group includes experts in the fields of
accounting, auditing, financial reporting, corporate finance and corporate
governance, as well as experts in investing in public companies. "The SAG
consists of experts who have a stake in the preparation of informative,
accurate and independent audit reports. Its members are an important source of
insight and advice to the Board," said PCAOB Chairman James R. Doty.

Sridhar Ramamoorti is a Director in the Corporate Governance
Center and a professor of accountancy at Kennesaw State University. His research
explores the nature and determinants of professional judgment and
decision-making expertise among seasoned auditors and forensic accountants. Dr.
Ramamoorti also has authored numerous books, monographs, and articles.

Congratulations to Sri!

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 17, 2013

LEADING BY EXAMPLE, ASCEND’S 6TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR EXEMPLIFIED "INNOVATING LEADERSHIP IN A BORDERLESS WORLD”

September 17, 2013, New York, NY – Ascend had over 2,000 registered
participants comprised of business leaders, young professionals, students, and
senior executives from a wide cross-section of the Pan-Asian business community
for the 6th Ascend Annual National
Convention & Career Fair held in Anaheim CA, making it the largest Ascend
Convention to date. The premier annual business event of its kind, this
year’s program exuded "Innovating Leadership in a Borderless World”, the
theme of the Convention.

Taking place August 23rd -26th at
the sprawling Disneyland Hotel, the Convention had something to offer to all
participants. A must-attend event for business executives, working
professionals, job seekers, hiring managers, and students, this annual
gathering lived up to its promise to Connect professionals, Inspire future
leaders and help them Ascend to new heights through unparalleled talent
development, mentoring and networking opportunities. For the corporate,
government, academic, and non-profit partners and sponsors, this leading event
offered unmatched branding and talent acquisition platform as well as
professional development opportunities for their diverse employees.

Speaking at the Convention
Welcome Reception on Saturday, August 24th,
Jeff Chin, president of Ascend National said, "For Ascend, 2013 has been in
many respects a year of new beginnings and many 'firsts", all of which
help us achieve our mission of empowering and advancing Pan-Asians in global
corporations, and give us our unique standing in the community.” He went on to
highlight key Ascend programs: The Executive Insight Series for Women, a
program for Pan-Asian women, developed by Pan-Asian women and led by Pan Asian
women (launched at the Convention), Emerging Markets Leadership (EML) Program at
the University of Chicago Booth School of Business for those that want to be
global executives (first session to be held in May 2014) and Ascend Pinnacle,
the Corporate Board program was also announced at the Convention. Pinnacle will
create a platform to connect, engage and support Pan-Asians currently on
Corporate Boards and develop candidates for future Board service.

The Leadership Luncheon and
the prestigious Gala Awards Dinner celebrated global Pan-Asian talent and
leadership, honoring exemplary leaders with the following awards:

Scholarship awards were
presented to deserving graduate and undergraduate students from across the
country.

Culminating an action-packed
Convention, at the Gala, Mr. Chin encouraged all participants to become
ambassadors of Ascend and said, "I have this call to action for all our guests
here: don’t lose the momentum! Get involved! Become Ascend ambassadors and
continue to pay it forward for yourself and for your peers.”

After much excitement building
throughout the Convention about the location of 2014 Ascend Convention, the
Gala guests were treated to a fun surprise as they opened fortune cookies
revealing Washington D.C. as the host city for 2014. AscendNAAMBA (National
Association of Asian MBAs) will hold its Annual National Leadership Conference
& Career Exposition in Boston, MA. Stay tuned for details!

About Ascend

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional association
dedicated to enabling its members, corporate

partners and the community to realize the leadership
potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE, ASCEND’S 6TH
ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR TO EXEMPLIFY "INNOVATING
LEADERSHIP IN A BORDERLESS WORLD”

August 8, 2013, New York, NY – In less than 3 weeks, over 2,000 leaders
and senior executives from a wide cross-section of the Pan-Asian business
community will gather in Anaheim, CA for the 6th Ascend Annual National
Convention & Career Fair. Slated to be the
premier annual business event of its kind, this year’s program exudes "Innovating Leadership in a
Borderless World”, the theme of the Convention.

Taking
place August 23rd -26th at the sprawling Disneyland Hotel,
this Convention has something to offer to all participants. A truly must
attend event for business executives, working professionals, job seekers,
hiring managers, and students, this annual gathering promises to Connect professionals, Inspire future leaders and help them Ascend to new heights through unparalleled talent development,
mentoring and networking opportunities. For our corporate, government,
academic, and non-profit partners and sponsors, this leading event will offer
unmatched branding and talent acquisition platform as well as professional
development opportunities for their diverse employees.

Garnering support and
encouragement from the highest levels of the government, the Convention has
received a Presidential Message from President Barack Obama indicating that
"…these occasions help ensure AAPI professionals are prepared for the global
challenges of the 21st century and our business community reflects
the diversity of our people.”

Two
of the highlights of the Convention will feature the Leadership Luncheon and
the prestigious Gala Awards Dinner, celebrating global Pan-Asian talent and
leadership and honoring exemplary leaders with awards such as Inspirational Leader (presented by
Deloitte), High Impact Leader, Rising
Star, PhD (Passion, Heart and Dedication) Award, and the Affinity Employee
Resource Group (ERG) Award.

A landmark year of many
"firsts” in Ascend’s journey, this year’s Convention will be a launch-pad for the highly
anticipated Executive Insight for Women program. Excitement is also building
for Ascend’s unique and innovative Emerging Markets Leadership Program at the University Of Chicago Booth
School Of Business and for Pinnacle, Ascend’s Board Initiative. Momentum is also
building for the forthcoming launch of Ascend’s 2nd International
Chapter in Vancouver, Canada.

The National Association of
Asian MBAs (NAAMBA) joined the Ascend family earlier this year to form
AscendNAAMBA and is proud to deliver robust Convention programming and career
development opportunities for working professionals, MBA students and job
seekers. In addition, the Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) will
offer mentoring workshops at the Convention. AAPA is a non-profit community
service organization dedicated to advancing Asian American professionals to
become leaders in corporate America.

"I am always amazed by the passion, dedication and energy that our
Ascend volunteers and members bring to our National Conventions. With the
addition of AscendNAAMBA to our Ascend family, I expect that the upcoming
National Convention will be even more magical at the happiest place on earth,
Disneyland. We hope you will join us for this unforgettable experience!” said
Jeff Chin, the president of Ascend National.

About Ascend

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional association
dedicated to enabling its members, corporate partners and the community to
realize the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations.

ASCEND
ANNOUNCES THE FORMATION OF ASCENDNAAMBA

April
20, 2013, New York
– Ascend announced the National Association of Asian MBAs (NAAMBA) has
officially joined Ascend to create the largest non-profit membership
organization focused on the leadership development and advancement of
Pan-Asians in global business.

The
announcement was made at Ascend’s Inspiring Across Generations Regional
Conference on April 20th held at New York’s
Yankee Stadium. President of the Ascend Board of Directors, Jeff Chin, shared
the news with nearly 1,000 in attendance at the conference. "NAAMBA’s focus on
MBA’s and universities is a natural complement to Ascend’s network of Pan-Asian
business professionals. We are thrilled to have NAAMBA join the Ascend family,
and further our collective mission to bring our community together to create a
greater impact. Our relevancy to our
corporate partners and Asian professionals, not only here in the U.S. but also
internationally, will continue to grow.”

By
joining forces, NAAMBA will be recognized as AscendNAAMBA, the MBA component of
Ascend, and will continue to offer robust development programs designed to
cultivate Pan-Asian talent and professional advancement. Lily Tang, Chair of the NAAMBA Board of
Directors, envisions a future with global expansion through regional chapters.
"Ascend and the new AscendNAAMBA share a non-profit mission focused on giving
back to the Pan-Asian community which allows us to make the best of our collaboration
with corporate partners and universities.
It’s a model that will continue to serve our members well.”

Both
Ascend and NAAMBA have served Pan-Asian business professionals for many years
as separate organizations. The new alliance provides an excellent opportunity
to identify and cultivate highly sought after Pan-Asian talent and future
leadership for America.

Ascend
and AscendNAAMBA will celebrate coming together with a joint National
Convention and career fair on August 23-26, 2013 at Disneyland in Anaheim, CA.
Thereafter, the plan is to have AscendNAAMBA hold its own National Convention
and career fair.

There
will also be mentoring programs to bring the former NAAMBA students together
with Ascend professionals to create a seamless pipeline of Pan-Asian executive
talent. Other national and local programs include the ERG Council, Executive
Insight Series, LEAD Series, Women of Ascend, Mentorship, Inspiring Across
Generations Regional Leadership Conferences, Advance Leadership Program for Asian
Executives at Stanford University and the National Convention.

About
Ascend Ascend
is the premier non-profit professional organization dedicated in enabling its
members, business partners and the community to leverage the leadership and
global business potential of Pan-Asians.
Ascend promotes critical leadership skills,
mentoring and career advancement from students to CXOs, serving as a collective
voice for the Pan-Asian community. Ascend spans 16 professional, 2 regional MBA
and 27 undergraduate student chapters across the United States and Canada,
reaching over 20,000 people in just 7
years. Our members include corporations, professionals, students and MBAs. For more information about Ascend, visit www.ascendleadership.org or contact
Jennifer Aderis at 212-248-4888 or jennifer.aderis@ascendleadership.org

About
AscendNAAMBA

The
new AscendNAAMBA will continue to focus on the Pan-Asian MBA population, both
foreign and domestic by leveraging key
relationships developed with major universities and business schools. Before
joining Ascend, NAAMBA operated four national conferences attracting corporate
sponsors from a wide range of industries, as well as, two international
conferences, in partnership with the MBA Career Services Council. For more
information about AscendNAAMBA, contact Robina Singh at 914-356-4184 or Robina.Singh@ascendleadership.org

ASCEND'S "INSPIRING ACROSS GENERATIONS” NEW YORK CITY REGIONAL CONFERENCE STRIVES TO ADVANCE PAN-ASIAN LEADERS IN CORPORATE AMERICA AND BEYOND

Event to be held on April 20th at the iconic
Yankee Stadium and features Yankees legend Hideki Matsui

NEW YORK, April 19, 2013 — The Pan-Asian community
is growing in both numbers and visibility and the future looks quite promising
for Pan-Asians in the United States.
With fewer than 6% of the total US population being of Pan-Asian
descent, as of 2012,
Pan-
Asian Americans have had the highest educational
attainment level and median household income of any racial demographic in the
country and Corporate America is starting to take notice. Today, nearly 2% of
Fortune 500 CEO's are of Pan-Asian descent and with increased visibility comes
increased opportunities
.
To highlight the role of Pan-Asian professionals in
corporate America, increase the tools necessary for Pan-Asian professionals to
continue to climb the corporate ladder and discuss trends in global leadership
and employment, the Ascend New York Metro area, New Jersey and
Connecticut/Westchester chapters have brought together some of corporate
America's top leaders and iconic corporate sponsors to host a one-day
"Inspiring Across Generations” (IAG) New York City Regional Conference this Saturday,
April 20th.The conference is expected to convene more
than 600 Pan-Asian professionals, students and global business leaders at
Yankee Stadium to explore how to connect, inspire and ascend in corporate
America.

As the premier, national non-profit for Pan-Asians
in America, Ascend aims to reveal the full potential of Pan-Asian leaders in
corporate America and across the globe. "Since Ascend's inception in 2005, our
objective has been to enhance the presence of Pan-Asians industry wide. Our IAG
event will give Pan-Asians practical advice on how to evolve with the ever-changing
marketplace and technological landscape to ultimately advance their careers”,
said
Kamesh Nagarajan, President of Ascend's New York Chapter.

With the theme "Leadership in a Global Economy:
Create, Connect and Collaborate,” this conference will address the issues faced
by Pan-Asians in multinational corporations and examine how technology and
globalization have created a borderless world, changing today's business
environment and transforming the rules of engagement for the new generation of
talent. Conference highlights will include a special guest appearance by
Japanese and Major League Baseball
legend Hideki Matsui; panel discussions featuring top corporate
executives; mentoring circles; Ascend's Executive Insight Series program; and a
networking reception. Attendees are also invited to participate in a career
fair, hosted in partnership with the Chinese American Insurance Association
(CAIA), attracting an estimated 30 companies across the financial, insurance,
service and consumer products industries.

"As the marketplace has bridged the gap between
Asia and the U.S., it is time to take action and realize the global potential
of up-and-coming leaders at our fingertips,”
Nagarajan
added. "For companies to remain successful in the competitive, global
marketplace, they must meld the East-West culture and recruit diverse talent.
The way business was once conducted has dramatically transformed and created a
new playing field.”

Industry and academic leaders will share their
insights and experiences through panel discussions on topics such as "Transformational
Leadership: Developing Strategies for a Globalized Economy,” "Leadership in
Turbulent Times” and "Branding in the Age of Digital Media.” Key speakers will
include Wei Sun Christianson, Co-CEO Asia Pacific & CEO China, Morgan
Stanley; Greg Fleming, President, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management; Sree Sreenivasan,
Chief Digital Officer, Columbia University; and Jim Turley,Global Chairman and CEO, Ernst & Young.
Hideki Matsui will also share his
inspirational story of advancing from a Japanese league baseball legend, to a
leader in the Yankee clubhouse, to the 2009 World Series MVP for the New York
Yankees.

Ascend aspires to
develop a strong network of leaders and a community that encourages growth and
mentorship through efforts such as the IAG conference. "Building relationships is
critical. We encourage Pan-Asians to step outside their comfort zone and strike
up a conversation with a peer, a mentor or a speaker. Make it a point to make
at least three new contacts and then, follow up within two weeks. A panel or
speech can be inspiring, but a new professional contact or mentor is priceless,”
Nagarajan said.

Ascend is the premier national, non-profit
professional organizationdedicated
to enabling its members, business partners and the community to leverage the
leadership and global business potential of Pan-Asians across the country.
Ascend reaches 20,000 people with 27 student chapters
and 16 professional chapters located in both the U.S. and Canada around major
business hubs and educational institutions.
Ascend
membership is open to individuals of all ethnic and business backgrounds.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Karim Hamaoui

301.995.9937 / karim@innovativeproductions.net

ASCEND SEEKS BUSINESS LEADERS DEMONSTRATING AND FOSTERING LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND IMPACT

Annual Call for Nominees Opens;Honorees to be recognized at 2012 National Convention in Chicago

New York, NY – March 2, 2012 – Ascend, the premier national non-profit professional organization dedicated to enhancing the presence and influence of Pan-Asian business leaders, is proud to announce the opening of nominations for stellar individuals and groups working to advance the global business potential of Pan-Asian professionals.

According to Arthur Chin, National Executive Director of Ascend, "Ascend is once again honored to showcase leaders of the Pan-Asian business community who embody the Ascend mission. With the launch of Ascend Canada, our expansion has enabled us to develop unparalleled access to the largest set of leading Pan-Asian executives, managers and mentors gathered together at one time. These committed role models are rejuvenating corporate business across industries by building the leadership pipeline through Ascend’s targeted programs for professionals and managers such as our premiere Executive Insight Series.”

Nominations are requested for the Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award, Ascend Inspiring Across Generations Recognitions and the Ascend Affinity/ERG Leadership Award. This year’s honorees will be featured on July 30th, 2012 at the Gala Awards Dinner. Ascend will hold its 5th Annual National Convention on July 27-30, 2012 at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. This year’s them is Transforming Leadership & You, drawing over 2,000 attendees across the continent.

The Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award recognizes an individual who has had meaningful impact in his/her profession, demonstrated leadership in the marketplace, and shown commitment to community service. Individuals from all industries, government and non-profit organizations are eligible. Community work may involve mentoring, social or civic issues, health or environmental concerns, or the arts and humanities. Nominees should demonstrate unwavering leadership, impact and a commitment to the success of others in service to the Pan-Asian community. As part of the Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award, Ascend/Deloitte will make a donation on behalf of the recipient to the charity of his or her choice.

The Ascend Inspiring Across Generations (IAG) Recognitions identify Inspirational Leaders (CXOs & executives), High-Impact Leaders (senior managers) and Rising Stars (high-potential managers) who have dedicated themselves to promoting Pan-Asian leadership in business and the community. All industry sectors and functions are eligible. Beyond significant achievement of, or potential for professional success, nominees should demonstrate engagement in the Pan-Asian community and volunteerism through mentoring, leadership development and board service.

The Ascend Affinity/ERG Leadership Award recognizes a Pan-Asian Affinity, ERG, BRG or Multicultural group that has shown outstanding leadership and initiative in promoting Pan-Asian visibility, diversity and value through one or more of the following areas: leadership development, talent acquisition, retention, cultural awareness in the business setting, marketing, business development and community involvement. These groups are typically led by managers and professionals in the organization with an executive sponsor and are designed to further personal and professional development, networking and sharing of best practices while promoting diversity and recognition of Pan-Asians inside and outside the corporation.

Ascend encourages its corporate partners along with all other corporations and organizations to nominate executives, senior managers and professionals who merit public acknowledgement. Nominations may be submitted online at http://www.ascendleadership.org/nominations no later than June 1st, 2012. Selections will be determined shortly after and celebrated at the Gala Awards Dinner on July 30th, 2012. For more information on nominations, sponsorship, career fair, press or advertising opportunities, please email eplanner@ascendleadership.org or call the Convention Management Office at 301.995.9937.

# # #

About Ascend

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional association that enables its members, corporate partners and the community to realize the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations. Ascend reaches 15,000 people with 38 professional and student chapters located in major business hubs and campuses. Ascend membership is open to individuals of all ethnicities and business backgrounds.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chris Manzella

908.219.4142

Olympian Bryan Clay to Headline 2011 Ascend National Convention

Deloitte Sponsors Clay’s Appearance at Annual Pan-Asian Professional
Networking and Development Gathering in New York
​

October 10, 2011 – New York – Ascend, the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations, is delighted to have Deloitte, Official Professional Services Sponsor* of the United States Olympic Committee, host honored guest and keynote speaker Olympian Bryan Clay at its 2011 National Convention in New York City. "Competing in a Borderless World,” Ascend’s fourth annual convention, will take place October 28-31, 2011 at the Hilton New York.

Bryan Clay, a native of Hawaii, comes from an African-American and Japanese background. Coined "Hawaii’s Hero” after winning the Silver Medal in the Athens 2004 Olympics, he earned another decathlon title World Champion title in 2005, and went on to win the Gold Medal in Beijing in 2008. Now among the very few decathletes to hold two Olympic medals, he sets his sights on a third. If Clay wins in London in 2012, he will set Olympic history by becoming the only decathlete to win three Olympic medals.

Clay will be interviewed during the Ascend National Convention at a session entitled "Overcoming Obstacles and Leveraging Strengths” by Anna Mok, partner, Deloitte & Touche, LLP, who has sponsored his appearance at the event.

"Bryan Clay is a leading Pan-Asian example of striving for personal excellence while engaging a whole network of mentors, sponsors, advocates and teammates. We are truly excited to hear his thoughts on mental toughness, his personal brand of being clean and being globally competitive against all odds and challenges.” says Arthur Chin, National Executive Director, Ascend. "It is an honor and privilege to have him at Ascend’s national convention to share his wisdom with all of our attendees!”

The Ascend National Convention is open to business professionals who are interested in networking, education and mentoring. The Convention also features a Corporate and Career Fair on October 29 from 8:30am – 6pm. More than 40 hiring companies in all major industries will be represented, and the Fair is open to the public separate from Convention registration.

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to enabling its members, corporate partners and the community to realize the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations. Ascend reaches 12,000 businesspeople with 37 professional and student chapters located in major business hubs and campuses. Ascend membership is open to individuals of all ethnicities and business backgrounds. (www.ascendleadership.org)

ASCEND ANNOUNCES 2011 LEADERSHIP AWARD WINNERS

Corporate Leaders Recognized for Efforts to Advance Global Business Potential for Pan-Asian Professionals

New York, NY – August 17, 2011 –Ascend, the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations, will honor several business leaders and members of the corporate community who have demonstrated and fostered leadership development and impact. The 2011 Leadership Award winners will be recognized at the organization’s fourth annual National Convention later this month.

Norman C.T. Liu will be named the recipient of the 2011 Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award.AsPresident and CEOatGE Capital Aviation Servicesfor 22 years, Mr. Liu hasserved as Corporate Champion of the GE Asian Pacific American Forum and is a member of the Committee of 100, a leading Chinese American organization.The Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award honors an individual who has had a meaningful impact on accounting, finance, professional services or related profession, shown leadership in the marketplace and fostered commitment to community service.

"We are privileged to have the opportunity to recognize these outstanding members of our community for their commitment to the advancement of Pan-Asian professionals,” says Arthur Chin, National Executive Director of Ascend. "Their efforts underscore the goals of the Ascend organization by supporting and advancing Pan-Asians in corporate America and we are grateful for their leadership and contributions.”

Nominations of executives, senior managers and professionals who merit public acknowledgment were solicited by the organization from corporate partners as well as with all other corporations and organizations. A selection committee, comprised of Ascend board members, evaluated hundreds of nominations to determine this year’s honoree list.

This year’s honorees will be featured on August 29 at the Gala Awards Dinner for "Competing in a Borderless World” – the 2011 Ascend National Convention. Presented in partnership with Platinum and Pearl Sponsors Bank of America, Boeing, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, GE Capital, KPMG, PwC and State Farm, the 3-day event will be held August 27-29, 2011 in New York City. The Convention draws approximately 2,000 attendees, and is open to any business professional who wishes to attend, and there are student-focused sessions this year as well. Event registration and programming updates available online at www.ascendconvention.org

About Ascend

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to enabling its members, corporate partners and the community to realize the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations. Ascend reaches 12,000 businesspeople with 37 professional and student chapters located in major business hubs and campuses. Ascend membership is open to individuals of all ethnicities and business backgrounds. (www.ascendleadership.org)

Ascend, the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations, is pleased to announce that international business leader Washington SyCip will be honored with the first ever Presidents Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2011 Leadership Lunch in New York City at the Ascend National Convention 2011. "Competing in a Borderless World,” Ascend’s fourth annual convention, will take place August 27 – 29 at the Hilton in New York City.

Washington SyCip, founder of Philippine based financial services firm SGV & Co and internationally recognized Pan-Asian business leader, will be accepting the organization’s first ever President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. SyCip is a sought-after authority on business matters ranging from best practices, to mentoring and leadership in finance, business management, philanthropic endeavors and promoting educational programs.

"Mr. SyCip came from humble beginnings to build a strong and powerful network. He has won the respect and trust of others in Asian leadership,” says Arthur Chin, Executive Director of Ascend. "His accomplishments underscore the Ascend mission and it is our privilege to honor his contributions to our community.”

Mr. SyCip, 90, is Chinese born and grew up in both Shanghai and the Philippines, receiving an American education while still overseas. He graduated high school at fifteen and received his Bachelors of Science in two and a half years summa cumme laude at the Catholic University of Santo Tomas (UST), before pursing a career in finance. Mr. SyCip attended Columbia University and then begin his career in the financial world.

Establishing himself as an accountant with his brothers, they grew their community business in Manila following World War II. Ultimately, his firm would take over his competitors and would accomplish a merger in 1946 that would result in his famed empire SyCip, Gorres, Velayo and Company (SGV). Going global with affiliates in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and South Vietnam allowed him to give back to his Pan-Asian community by erecting the Asian Institute of Management in the Philippines, creating the SGV Foundation and the SGV Professional/Social Involvement Program. After he relinquished his job as managing partner of SGV and became the Chairman SGV the company continued to expand the company to Hong Kong, Korea, Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Sri Lanka and Washington.

As an acclaimed member of the international business community Mr. SyCip was appointed to many boards and advisory committees. Mr. SyCip served as founder at the Institute of Management, Senior Adviser of Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co, Member of the International Advisory Board of the American International Group, and is the Chairman of over a dozen boards including the Asia Pacific Advisory Committee of the New York Stock Exchange. Mr. SyCip was also a Member of the International Advisory Board of the Chase Manhattan, Independent Director of Philippine National Bank &Highlands Prime Inc., founder at the Asian Institute of Management and Executive Officer of SyCip, Gorres, Velayo & Co. Mr. SyCip holds a Masters of Science in Commerce from Columbia University, New York and a Bachelors of Science in Commerce from University of Santo Tomas, Philippines.

Ascend’s President Jeffrey Chin will be presenting the award at the Leadership Luncheon at the Ascend National Convention 2011. Arthur Chin is exceptionally excited to have Washington accepting Ascend’s award. "We are incredibly honored to present Mr. SyCip with a token of our appreciation,” said Mr. Chin. " His visionary efforts continue to give back to the Pan-Asian community.”

"Competing in a Borderless World,” the 2011 Ascend National Convention, is presented in partnership with Platinum and Pearl Sponsors Bank of America, Boeing, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, GE Capital, KPMG, PwC and State Farm. The Convention is open to any business professional who wishes to attend, and there are student-focused sessions this year as well. Event registration and programming updates available online at www.ascendconvention.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chris Manzella

@AscendLeader

908.219.4142

Philippine Consul General to Attend Ascend National Convention

August 3, 2011 – New York – Ascend, the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations, is pleased to announce that Philippine Consul General, Honorable Mario Lopez de Leon, Jr. will be present to honor Washington SyCip with the first ever President’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Leadership Lunch taking place at the Ascend National Convention. "Competing in a Borderless World,” Ascend’s fourth annual convention, will be held August 27 – 29 at the Hilton in New York City.

Honorable Mario Lopez de Leon, Jr., who on March 1st 2011 accepted his new post as the new Consul General with jurisdiction over Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont, promotes the bonds of the Philippines and of the Filipino community throughout the Northeast.Consul General de Leon felt it imperative that he was present to support Ascend’s first ever President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Consul General de Leon has served as acting assistant secretary of the Office of Fiscal Management (June 2009 - January 2010) and as the chief coordinator of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs (September 2008 - January 2010). Consul General de Leon is a long-standing colleague of Mr. SyCip.

"We are elated to have such an esteemed leader and diplomat joining us to represent the Philippines at our National Convention,” says Arthur Chin, Executive Director of Ascend. "It is truly fitting that Mr. SyCip is joined by fellow countrymen who share his pursuit of leadership, mentorship and community development of all Pan-Asians.”

"Competing in a Borderless World,” the 2011 Ascend National Convention, is presented in partnership with Platinum and Pearl Sponsors Bank of America, Boeing, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, GE Capital, KPMG, PwC and State Farm. The Convention is open to any business professional who wishes to attend, with executive and student-focused sessions as well. Event registration and programming updates available online at www.ascendconvention.org

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About Ascend

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to enabling its members, corporate partners and the community to realize the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations. Ascend reaches 12,000 businesspeople with 37 professional and student chapters located in major business hubs and campuses. Ascend membership is open to individuals of all ethnicities and business backgrounds. (www.ascendleadership.org)

Industry Leaders Spearhead Annual Pan-Asian Professional
Networking and Development Gathering in New York

July 11, 2011 – New York – Ascend, the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations, has announced its keynote for its 2011 national convention gala in New York City. "Competing in a Borderless World,” Ascend’s fourth annual convention, will take place August 27 – 29 at the Hilton NYC.

Punit Renjen, newly-appointed Chairman of the Board at Deloitte LLP, will be featured at the Gala Dinner. Ascend will also be honoring Washington Sycip, one of Asia’s premier businessmen educated in the US, with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He was recognized by Philippine President Benigno Aquino III in a ceremony last month.

"Already a global powerhouse, Asia is poised to contribute more than half the global growth in the next five years,” says Arthur Chin, National Executive Director, Ascend. "The Pan-Asian community in the US represents an immense amount of talent and an expansive network of professionals for leading corporations. We are proud to harness this leadership potential and leverage tremendous opportunities at our national convention in New York.

Convention programming includes:

Overcoming the Myths of Asian Leadership (with mentoring sessions)

Aiming High Across Borders

Women of Ascend

Men of Ascend: Arrogance & Business Success

Changing Dynamics in the Emerging Markets (China, India)

In addition, Ascend will be launching significant new programming at the convention. The Executive Insight Seriesis a limited-seating hands-on workshop designed to prepare high-potential Pan-Asian managers and young executives for high-impact roles in major U.S. corporations. These workshops, developed and delivered by Pan-Asian executives from companies such as Cisco, HP, IBM and KPMG, address identified issues that prevent Pan-Asians from reaching top executive positions, including aversion to risk-taking, limited corporate networking, insufficient communications skills and different cultural interactions.

The convention also features a Corporate and Career Fair on August 29 from 8:30am – 6pm. All major industries will be represented including corporate sponsors.

The convention will conclude with the annual Gala Awards Dinner on August 29 at 6:30pm to award honorees of the Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award and the Ascend Inspiring Across Generations Recognitions.

"Competing in a Borderless World,” the 2011 Ascend National Convention, is presented in partnership with Platinum and Pearl Sponsors Bank of America, Boeing, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, GE Capital, KPMG, PwC and State Farm. The Convention is open to any business professional who wishes to attend, and there are student-focused sessions this year as well. Event registration and programming updates available online at www.ascendconvention.org

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About Ascend

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to enabling its members, corporate partners and the community to realize the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations. Ascend reaches 12,000 businesspeople with 37 professional and student chapters located in major business hubs and campuses. Ascend membership is open to individuals of all ethnicities and business backgrounds. (www.ascendleadership.org)

CONTACT: Kristina Handley

AFFAIRS Event Services

908.219.4142 / Kristina@trustaffairs.com

ASCEND SEEKS BUSINESS LEADERS DEMONSTRATING AND FOSTERING LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND IMPACT

Annual Call for Nominees Opens;
Honorees to be Recognized at 2011 National Convention

New York, NY – May 16, 2011 – Ascend, the premier professional association for enhancing the presence and influence of Pan-Asian business leaders, is pleased to announce the opening of nominations to recognize stellar individuals working to advance the global business potential of Pan-Asian professionals.

"Every year we have the privilege of showcasing members of the community who embody the Ascend mission,” says Arthur Chin, National Executive Director of Ascend. "As a national non-profit organization, we have developed unparalleled access to the largest set of leading Pan-Asian executives, managers and mentors who are helping corporate America build the leadership pipeline by giving back. They collectively create a major positive impact, revitalizing the US economy and sharing experiences as inspirational multi-cultural role models.”

Nominations are requested for the Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award andthe Ascend Inspiring Across Generations Recognitions awards. This year’s honorees will be featured on August 29, 2011 at the Gala Awards Dinner for "Competing in a Borderless World” – the organization’s fourth annual National Convention. The 3-day event will be held August 27-29, 2011 in New York City, drawing 2,000 attendees.

· The Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award honors an individual who has had a meaningful impact on accounting, finance, professional services or related professions, shown leadership in the marketplace, and fostered commitment to community service. Candidates from any industry, government agency and non-profit organization are eligible. Community work may involve mentoring, social or civic issues, address health or environmental concerns, or promote the arts and humanities. Nominees must give examples of how they have been committed to the success of others over time in service to the Pan-Asian community.

· The Ascend Inspiring Across Generations Recognitions identifies Inspirational Leaders (CXOs and executives), High-Impact Leaders (senior managers) and Rising Stars (high-potential managers) who have dedicated themselves to promoting Pan-Asian leadership in business and the community. All industry sectors and functions are eligible including information technology, engineering, finance, marketing, business strategy, human resources and operations. Beyond significant achievement of – or potential for – professional success, nominees should demonstrate engagement of the Pan-Asian community and volunteerism through mentoring, leadership development and board service.

Ascend encourages its corporate partners along with all other corporations and organizations to nominate executives, senior managers and professionals who merit public acknowledgement. Nominations may be submitted online at http://www.ascendconvention.orgno later than July 15, 2011. Selections will be determined by July 31, 2011 and celebrated at the Gala Awards Dinner in August. For more information on nominations, sponsorship, career fair, press or advertising opportunities, please email eplanner@ascendleadership.org or call the Convention Management Office at (908) 219-4142.

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About Ascend

With 37 professional and student chapters across the U.S., Ascend is the premier national non-profit Pan-Asian business organization for corporate business.Visit www.ascendleadership.org for a complete list of upcoming events.